Encouraging Signs of a Recovery for Italian Glass Processing Machinery

In 2008, exports of machinery, accessories and special products for glass processing continued to grow over 2007; exports rose by 2.47 percent overall.



According to information from Gimav, this is a very high-tech industry where Italy is in the forefront and has been highly successful internationally. Within the highly specialized sector of machine tools, machinery, accessories and special products for glass processing have posted an average 9.35 percent increase over the past ten years.



Gimav notes that in 2008, Italian machinery, accessories and special products for glass processing remained in the lead on the international marketplace. Figures analyzed by Gimav indicate that the industry closed 2008 with €1,398,409,932 in sales (+ 2.11 percent), with an export content of 73.71 percent.



The group also reported that although orders fell toward the end of 2008 companies in the industry are performing well and, according to initial estimates, the situation is expected to pick up again in the second half of 2009 as a result of strong investments in research, innovative product, an international reach and promotional campaigns overseas.



"Italy is and remains a powerhouse worldwide in the glass machinery and accessories industry. Our strength lies in our ability to mix technology and innovation," says Cinzia Schiatti, president of the association. "This is what we are noted for worldwide and this has allowed us to keep ahead of other builders across the world. A head start that we want to maintain by committing ourselves to innovation and customer service."